Newland combines church art and architectural history with opportunities for outdoor walks. All Saints Church offers a tangible introduction to the area’s architectural history. Historic buildings such as Spout Farm Barn and the Spout Farm Cottages add to the picture of local history; two moderate circular walks starting from The Ostrich offer another way to spend time outdoors.
All Saints Church: Architectural History and Art
All Saints Church in Newland dates back to the early 13th century. The original building was extended in the 14th and 15th centuries; this includes a Chantry Chapel founded by Edward I in 1305. The nickname “Cathedral of the Forest” refers to the width of the side aisles.
Inside the church, you can see the original Miners Brass and 20th-century tapestries by church artist Beryl Dean. There are also medieval floor tiles, 17th-century floor tombs, as well as monuments and effigies. Together, these offer a view spanning the building’s development, works of art and memorials.
The church is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm; visitors are welcome. Check the opening hours before you arrive. A leaflet for a spiritual walk and information boards about the church’s history offer two different ways to explore: the leaflet focuses on the walk, while the boards provide historical explanations.
Historic Buildings and Landscape
Spout Farm Barn is a seven-bay barn dating from the early 17th century; the three Spout Farm Cottages from the same period have a T-shaped floor plan. This makes it possible to compare two different architectural forms: the barn’s layout and the cottages’ floor plan. The Probyn family rebuilt Spout Farm from the late 17th century onwards.
The name Nova Terra also offers a link to the history of the landscape: it referred to clearings made in the forest for new agricultural use. The historic conversion of woodland adds a perspective on how the landscape was used to the story of the buildings.
Circular Walks and Walking Opportunities
From The Ostrich, a moderate circular walk follows the Burial Path back: it is 1.8 km long and takes about 30 minutes. The moderate circular walk to the River Wye and back covers 5.94 km and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This gives you a shorter option and a considerably longer walk to choose from. Route conditions can change; check them before setting off.
Walking opportunities near the Cathedral of the Forest include paths along Valley Brook and down to the River Wye. As well as the named circular walks, you can also consider walks by the brook and river.
Places to Eat and Drink
The Ostrich Inn in Newland serves local ales and food. The offering may change; check in advance if you plan to stop there.
Discover more destinations: Somerford Keynes, Badgeworth, Stroud, Sevenhampton, Littledean, Woodmancote, Newnham, Chipping Campden.
For the broader travel overview: Gloucestershire.
